Ellis names Banyana Banyana 11 to face Chile

6 October 2018 – Head coach of the Sasol-sponsored Banyana Banyana, Desiree Ellis, has named the starting 11 to face Chile tonight (Saturday, 6 October 2018) in the first of two international friendly matches.

Ellis has kept the bulk of the team that played the final of the COSAFA Women’s Championship against Cameroon in Port Elizabeth last month, but made two changes – bringing on defender Bambanani Mbane and forward Leandra Smeda for Noko Matlou and Thembi Kgatlana respectively.

Smeda makes her return to the starting 11 after missing out on the COSAFA Cup due to club commitments in Lithuania, whilst Mbane started off the bench against Cameroon, coming on as a late substitute in the 2-1 victory.

Goalkeeper Kaylin Swart retains her place, and will be supported at the rear by fullbacks Lebogang Ramalepe (right back) and Nothando Vilakazi (left back), with captain Janine van Wyk partnering Mbane in the heart of defence.

The combination of Refiloe Jane and Kholosa Biyana continues in the middle of the part, with Smeda and Kgaelebane Mohlakoane running the wings.

Linda Motlhalo will play just behind lone striker Jermaine Seoposenwe.

This will be the first ever meeting between the two nations, and South Africa is the first African women’s national team to face Chile in their backyard.

The South Americans are ranked 39thin the world – 4thin their continent (CONMEBOL) – pipped at the top by Brazil, Colombia and Argentina.

Banyana Banyana is not far behind, coming in 11 places behind their opponents – position 50 in the world and 4thin Africa, behind Nigeria, Ghana and Cameroon.

The second match will be played in the capital Santiago on Tuesday, 9 October at Estadio Santa Laura.

Kickoff is at 22h00 South African time (17h00 local time).

Banyana Banyana is using the matches as preparations for the upcoming Africa Women’s Cup of Nations scheduled for Ghana next month – the tournament serves as qualifiers for the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifiers to be played in France in June.